Japan is world-renowned for its disciplined culture and well-organized social systems, and public safety is an area where this rigorous approach stands out. In the Japanese traffic system, the combination of severe laws and relentless enforcement makes accidents involving drunk drivers rare events. This commitment is so serious that the risk of traffic incidents is often lower than other unusual causes, such as household accidents in an お風呂 (ofurô).
In this article, we will explore how Japan addresses the issue of driving under the influence of alcohol, the penalties that ensure the effectiveness of the laws, and the alternative measures that facilitate the safe return of all those involved.
Table of Contents
What happens if I drive drunk in Japan?
In Japan, the culture of respecting traffic rules is strengthened by extremely strict penalties. These penalties are applied both to drivers and to those who, in some way, contribute to or do not prevent someone from driving under the influence of alcohol.
Suspension and Cancellation of License
The first impact when caught driving under the influence of alcohol is the suspension or cancellation of the driver's license. For a blood alcohol level between 0.15 mg/l and 0.25 mg/l, the offender accumulates 13 points and has the license suspended for 90 days. If the alcohol content exceeds 0.25 mg/l, the situation worsens: there are 25 points and the license is canceled. In these cases, the driver is prohibited from obtaining a new license for up to two years.
For drivers caught completely intoxicated or out of control, the penalties are even harsher: the license is canceled, and the offender can only request a new one after three years. In addition, fines of up to 1,000,000 yen (about R$ 32,000) and prison sentences of up to five years are imposed.
Imprisonment and Fines
Drunk drivers face penalties that can include long prison terms. Depending on the severity and circumstances of the incident, such as a fatal accident, the prison sentence can last up to 15 years. If the alcohol content is lower but still above the legal limit, the fine can reach 500,000 yen (around R$ 16,000) and up to three years in prison. All passengers or people who allowed the driver to drive drunk are also held accountable, highlighting the importance of preventive measures.
Collective Responsibility: Everyone is Responsible
In Japan, traffic laws do not only target the drunk driver but also anyone who facilitates or does not prevent the action. If you are a passenger in a car driven by someone who is intoxicated, you may face the same consequences. Similarly, if you allow a drunk friend to drive or even encourage them to drink and drive, you could be considered an accomplice and held legally responsible.
Responsibility of Establishments
Bars and restaurants also have responsibilities. If an establishment serves drinks to a customer who clearly plans to drive, the bar owner can be fined or face other penalties. Many bars hire or have transportation services available to ensure their customers get home safely. Otherwise, they may have to face legal consequences, including heavy fines.
The rigorous legal system is an attempt to create a culture of collective responsibility, where each citizen helps to protect the lives of everyone.
Smart Alternatives: Daikou Unten Service
To avoid the severe consequences of driving under the influence, Japan has created innovative solutions such as Daikou Unten, a service that goes beyond conventional taxis. When a drunk driver needs to return home with their vehicle, two employees from the Daikou Unten company are sent: one drives the client's car, while the other follows in their own car, ensuring the safety of both.
How it works
- Contact with the Company: The client contacts Daikou Unten.
- Employee Pair: One driver takes the customer in their own car to the destination, while the other follows to ensure that the service is safe and efficient.
- Safety for AllThe customer, the car, and everyone involved arrive safely at the destination without any risk or penalty.
This smart approach is widely used and even encouraged, especially by commercial establishments that do not wish to become legally responsible for accidents.
Alternatives Within Bars
Many bars and restaurants, anticipating the need for security for their clients, have qualified staff to contact these services or even licensed internal drivers to take clients home. The idea is to avoid any chance of recklessness.
Final Reflections
Traffic laws in Japan are a model of efficiency and seriousness, where the cost of disobedience is very high. They encourage more responsible behavior and demonstrate that a rigorous, yet fair, system can prevent deaths and save lives. In Brazil and many other countries, this approach could be inspiring, especially given the high rates of accidents caused by driving under the influence of alcohol.
Remember: in Japan, if you drink, do not drive. And even though Western laws may not be as strict, the responsibility to protect lives is universal. Think carefully before getting behind the wheel after consuming alcohol. Safety, both yours and others', should always be a priority.
